If you’re craving a fulfilling meal that’s bursting with flavor and comes together with minimal fuss, look no further than these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Tender, smoky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with vibrant broccoli, all tied together by a decadent, garlicky sauce that you’ll want to drizzle on just about everything. Whether you need a reliable weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this protein-packed bowl delivers bold taste and nourishing comfort in every bite.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is a building block that adds a unique touch – from juicy chicken and fresh, crisp broccoli to the rich, tangy homemade garlic sauce. Here’s what you’ll need and how each plays its part:

Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for quick, even cooking and pleasing texture in every bite.
Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds color, crunch, and a nutrition boost that keeps the bowl balanced.
Olive oil: A key player for both the marinade and sautéing, lending richness and helping flavors stick to the ingredients.
Salt and black pepper: Season every layer to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and veg.
Smoked paprika: This gives the chicken a warm, subtle smokiness that transforms it from ordinary to mouthwatering.
Garlic powder: A dash here deepens the savory factor without overpowering the other spices.
Onion powder: Adds a sweet, aromatic undertone that rounds out the marinade.
Fresh lemon juice: A bright hit of acidity in both marinade and sauce makes every flavor pop.
Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy garlic sauce, making it irresistibly rich and smooth.
Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and a creamy body, lightening up the mayo for a well-balanced sauce.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives the sauce a zippy punch – don’t skimp!
Dijon mustard: Helps to emulsify the sauce and brings a sophisticated sharpness.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A pop of green for garnish that adds freshness and visual appeal.

How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This quick marinade not only infuses the chicken with layers of flavor, but also locks in juiciness. Coat the chicken evenly and let it soak up the goodness for about 20 minutes – perfect timing to prep your other components.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Fire up your grill, grill pan, or trusty skillet. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, undisturbed, until they’re beautifully charred and cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling – this keeps it succulent and makes slicing a breeze. Slice into strips or bite-sized pieces for easy bowl assembly.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

While the chicken rests, steam or quickly sauté the broccoli florets until they’re vivid green and just tender-crisp. Perfectly cooked broccoli adds a pleasant snap and bursts with freshness, complementing the richness of the chicken and sauce.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until everything is silky smooth. This creamy garlic sauce is tangy and bold, making it the star that ties your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce together.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Scoop generous helpings of broccoli and sliced chicken into each bowl. Drizzle (or pour, if you’re feeling bold) the creamy garlic sauce over top. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a finishing touch that feels as good as it looks.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

For an eye-catching presentation, finish your bowls with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika, or a few grinds of black pepper. A little lemon zest or a wedge of lemon on the side adds an extra spark of freshness, making these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Though these bowls are hearty on their own, you can easily turn this meal into a feast by serving with fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or even a crusty piece of garlic bread. A simple cucumber or tomato salad on the side adds a cool, crisp contrast and rounds it all out.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, try serving your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce in wide, shallow bowls with the ingredients arranged in neat sections. For meal prep, layer the components in glass containers for a color-packed lunch. If you’re feeling playful, serve the sauce on the side so everyone can customize the drizzle to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce fresh, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, the broccoli stays crisp and the chicken juicy. The creamy garlic sauce can be kept in a small jar or container for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Freezing

While the grilled chicken freezes wonderfully, broccoli is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days, as freezing can compromise its texture. The sauce, thanks to the mayo and yogurt base, does not freeze well, but you can prep it up to three days ahead and store in the fridge for optimal flavor and consistency.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your chicken and broccoli gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through. Add the sauce fresh after reheating, as this preserves its creamy texture and punchy flavor. If prepping ahead, keep the sauce chilled and stir just before serving for the best bowl experience every time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully, offering even more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust grilling time as needed, since thighs may need a minute or two longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries at all – a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop will give you lovely sear and flavor. Even oven baking works, though grilling does provide a touch of smokiness that makes these bowls stand out.

Is there a dairy-free version of the sauce?

You can swap in your favorite dairy-free yogurt and a vegan mayo to keep the sauce creamy and delicious. The rich garlic-lemon flavor still shines through!

Can I prep these bowls ahead for meal prep?

Yes, Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are ideal for meal prepping. Store everything separately, and assemble just before eating for ultimate freshness and flavor.

What vegetables can I substitute for broccoli?

Try swapping in florets of cauliflower, green beans, or even asparagus. The creamy garlic sauce pairs well with almost any roasted or sautéed green veggie you love.

Final Thoughts

If your taste buds are ready for a burst of flavor and your weeknight dinner routine could use a pick-me-up, you’ll love these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. They’re as nourishing as they are delicious and are sure to become a regular favorite at your table. Give them a try soon, and don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds!

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a delicious and healthy meal option that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken and marinate for 20 minutes.
Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let it rest and then slice.
Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or sauté the broccoli until tender-crisp.
Make the Sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls: Put the grilled chicken and broccoli in bowls. Drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce and garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

You can customize these bowls by adding your favorite grains or toppings.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the marinade and sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling, Steaming, Sautéing
Cuisine: American